Get Prepared for the ACT

The ACT (American College Test) is an exam created by the ACT organization that measures a student's ability to complete college-level work. It is a standardized way for all colleges to compare students using a uniform test.

Why should I take the ACT?

You should take an ACT test if you want to attend a 4-year college. It is required as part of the application process. Many scholarships use ACT scores, it is a good idea to take it if you plan to apply for a variety of scholarships.

The scores are also used by colleges to place you in the correct college level course.

When should I take the ACT?

Generally, it is recommended that you take the ACT in the spring of your junior year of high school. It is offered 5 times throughout the year: February, April, June, October, and December. As a senior, December is the latest month you can take it so it will still count toward admissions and scholarships.

You are not limited to taking it only as a junior or senior, in fact there are programs in which 7th graders take the ACT.

Should I take it more than once ?

It is very common for students to take the ACT more than once, I would recommend it.

What is the best way to prepare for the ACT?

Remember, this exam is measuring your ability to complete college level work. The BEST way is to take college-prep courses in high school, see the article on the EV Courses page.

In the short-term, there are various websites and courses that are offered. One recommended website is march2success.com, it is sponsored by the ARMY, but they will not recruit you through this site.

Northeast offers a half-day course that costs $25.00, you must pre-register for the course. Many students have found this helpful. Call 1-800-348-9033 ext. 7000 for information.

What will be on the test?

There are 4 basic tests on the ACT, English, Math, Reading, and Science. As a sophomore at EV, you will have taken the PLAN test, this is a test designed to give you practice for the ACT and to predict what your score could possibly be on the ACT.

Additionally, there is a writing portion on the test that is optional. At this point, it is ONLY recommended to take the writing portion if you are planning to apply for a school that requires it. Nebraska colleges are not requiring the writing portion at this time.

Where can I take the test?

The nearest testing centers are at Norfolk Senior High (160540), Northeast Community College (024760), and Wayne State College (024720). Make you sure you have written in the correct codes.

What is the "school code"?

The Elkhorn Valley school code is 242-340.

Should I send my scores to colleges?

YES! You will be asked to fill in 4 choices (2 more for an additional charge) under "College and Scholarship Choices". Sometimes, students feel apprehensive about sending scores because they are not sure how they will do. Fill these in because it will cost you more money to have them sent later. Also, you will probably do just fine.

What if I'm a good student, but do poorly on tests?

Hey, don't get too anxious. We are not all great test takers. If you feel like the score you get on the ACT does not reflect the student you really are, you are not alone. That is why admissions and scholarship applications include many other items in the application process. They account for your high school GPA, courses you have taken, activities you have been involved in, class rank, and essays.

A single number does not define who you are. Try your best, and what you get is what you get.

Click here for a complete list of frequently asked questions about the ACT: ACT FAQs.

Who should take the COMPASS?

If you plan to attend a 2-year college and do not plan to take the ACT, you will need to complete the COMPASS exam (the paper form is referred to as the ASSET). You register and take this exam at a community college campus. Northeast Community College is the nearest campus.

The scores are used for course placement.

ASSET and COMPASS study help

The following links have information on preparing for these exams:

www.act.org/asset

www.act.org/compass

www.testprepreview.com

Registering

Click on the following link for information on registering for the COMPASS exam at Northeast. You may also see the school counselor for information. COMPASS registration link.